The World Heritage List is a collection of cultural and natural sites that have been recognized for their exceptional universal value by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These sites are considered important for humanity and are protected to ensure their preservation for future generations.
The process of removing a city from the World Heritage List
While being added to the prestigious World Heritage List is a great honor, there are cases where a city may be removed from it. The removal process is not taken lightly and involves a multi-step evaluation by the World Heritage Committee.
Evaluation and identification of threats
When concerns arise about the conservation of a World Heritage city, the World Heritage Committee may request an evaluation to identify potential threats. This evaluation can be triggered by a range of factors, including armed conflicts, urban development, natural disasters, or unsustainable tourism.
Decision-making process
Once the evaluation is completed, the World Heritage Committee assesses the findings and decides whether the city should be removed from the World Heritage List. This decision is based on the severity of the threats and the actions taken (or not taken) to address them.
Notable examples of cities removed from the World Heritage List
Over the years, several cities have sadly been removed from the World Heritage List due to various reasons. Here are a few notable examples:
- Dresden, Germany: In 2009, Dresden was removed from the list due to the construction of a modern bridge that compromised the visual integrity of its historic landscape.
- Liverpool, United Kingdom: Liverpool was delisted in 2021 because of the irreversible damage caused by the development of new buildings on the waterfront.
- Oman’s Arabian Oryx Sanctuary: This natural site was removed in 2007 because the Omani government reduced its size and weakened the protection measures, endangering the habitat of the Arabian Oryx.
The removal of a city from the World Heritage List is a significant event that highlights the need for continued efforts to preserve our cultural and natural heritage. It serves as a reminder that proper conservation practices and responsible development are crucial to maintain the outstanding universal value of these sites for future generations.